ENCINITAS — The city of Encinitas is preparing to welcome a whimsical new addition to its public art collection: “Neptune Jr.,” a sculpture depicting a cherub riding a hammerhead shark.
Created by San Diego-based artist Sergey Gornushkin, the piece will be installed at Leucadia Oaks Park in early 2025, following a rigorous selection process by the city’s Arts Commission and approval from the City Council.
While the temporary installation has sparked excitement and debate, it represents a unique intersection of art, conservation, and community engagement.
Gornushkin described the sculpture, which will rest atop a 15-foot column, as a playful yet purposeful work of art.
“The idea behind the sculpture is to create awareness for marine protection,” Gornushkin told The Coast News. “The sculpture depicts a hammerhead shark with Cupid riding it. Cupid is a messenger of hope and peace and a new beginning.”
The cherub’s carefree stance atop the shark aligns with Encinitas’ active culture, where surfing, skating, and other outdoor activities are part of daily life.
“It’s going to be at a park where there are skaters, so everybody’s riding something, just like the cherub is riding the shark,” Gornushkin said.
The artist’s commitment to marine conservation runs deep. As president of the San Diego Sculptors Guild, Gornushkin has worked extensively on projects promoting environmental awareness, particularly through his gallery in Baja California, which collaborates with local universities on marine habitat restoration.
The sculpture’s title, “Neptune Jr.,” reflects his hope for the next generation.
“It’s kind of an homage to my son, hopefully following in my footsteps, and to other kids in the new generation being aware of marine ecosystems and trying to protect them,” he said.
The piece’s journey to Leucadia Oaks Park began with an expedited call for submissions issued by the city’s Arts Commission. The jury, composed of community members and commissioners, reviewed six proposals for two park locations.
Commissioner Katy Fox highlighted the considerations that went into the selection process.
“We looked at aesthetic qualities, like how the sculptures would be seen at specific sites, how they cast shadows, and how they fit within the surrounding environment,” she said, adding that Neptune Jr. stood out for its surprising and uplifting design, earning praise for its connection to the park’s coastal location and its engaging, story-like quality.
Public feedback also played a critical role in the decision. A survey conducted in October 2024 gathered 414 responses, with 94% of comments about Neptune Jr. being positive.
“People said things like, ‘This is awesome,’ ‘playful,’ and ‘abstract,’” Fox said.
Despite the overwhelming support, some residents raised concerns, including objections to perceived religious connotations or the depiction of a boy riding a shark.
“The piece has no religious connotation, and the cherub is a messenger of hope and peace,” Gornushkin said. “It was just a playful, fun idea with a good message.”
The sculpture was unanimously approved at a November council meeting. Mayor Tony Kranz supported the installation, acknowledging its potential to spark conversation — a core purpose of public art.
“Ultimately, the goal of the artist is to create a conversation, and I think this piece will be successful in that regard,” Kranz said.
Kranz also emphasized the installation’s temporary nature — the sculpture will remain in place for two years as part of the city’s public art loan program.
“It’s a low-risk opportunity to enhance public spaces,” he said.
Fox echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of public art in fostering community engagement.
“Everyone seems to want something that shifts the moment in an uplifting way, a surprise encounter that unifies us in new perspectives and celebrates our unique culture here in Encinitas,” she said.
For Gornushkin, he said the project is a labor of love, blending his passion for sculpture and environmental stewardship. Neptune Jr. is expected to be installed in late January 2024, and Gornushkin hopes it will inspire viewers of all ages.
“Our oceans, nature, the beauty we see and experience — it’s something to cherish,” he said. “Every generation needs to make sure the next generation gets to enjoy the same bounty and beauty that we do.”
